Puck Daddy

Why Flames defenseman Mark Giordano’s injury is a crushing one

Mark Giordano has been one of the better stories in the NHL this season for the Calgary Flames. But he could be gone for two months (6-8 weeks) with a broken ankle, according to the team.

Which sucks.

He had nine points in eight games and looked primed for one of his best offensive years in his eight seasons in Calgary. He was second on the team in average ice time (25:03) behind Dennis Wideman, playing most of his minutes with T.J. Brodie and doing his best to cover the youngster’s shortcomings against the opponents’ top talent.

“I would be his No. 1 supporter,” praised Flames’ boss Bob Hartley. “Gosh, what’s not to like? Plays hard. Plays smart. This guy’s on the job every day. Practice. Games. He’s pleasant. Coachable. A good family man. The ultimate pro.

“His defensive game is as sound as always. And his offensive contribution has been a pleasant surprise for us.

“I can go on and on and on. You get him in the office, it’s always real honest talks. Always for the best of the group. Not Gio. The group. I think all of that explains our choice as captain. I can’t imagine any team wouldn’t benefit from having Mark Giordano on it.”

Missing two months kills that Olympics dream. Hopefully it won’t take down the Flames, too.

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